Big Island Quakes Rock Hawaii as Kilauea Erupts, Residents Stay Alert for Aftershocks

In a significant geological event late Sunday evening, Hawaii's Big Island experienced a swarm of earthquakes, underscoring the ongoing seismic activity in the region that has persisted since 2019. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported a magnitude 4.3 quake occurring just after 11 p.m. local time, located about a mile west-southwest of Pahala. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or structural damage following the tremor. The initial earthquake was followed by a series of aftershocks, including a magnitude 3.7 quake that struck just 15 minutes later. These seismic events are a reminder of the dynamic nature of the Hawaiian landscape, particularly as they coincide with ongoing eruptions at the Kilauea volcano, situated approximately 26 miles north of Pahala. Despite the intensity of the quakes, the USGS indicated that they have not had any adverse effects on Kilauea or Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano. The initial quake was recorded at a depth of around 19 miles, and its effects were felt as far away as Oahu, demonstrating the far-reaching impacts of seismic activity in the region. With the potential for more aftershocks in the forthcoming days and weeks, residents and visitors alike remain on alert. This recent seismic activity is reminiscent of a similar-sized earthquake that rattled Pahala last November. The region has seen deep seismic activity since 2019, raising concerns and interest among both scientists and local residents. In addition to the earthquakes, Kilauea has continued its intermittent eruptions since December 23. The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory has reported that the intensity of these eruptions has increased recently, particularly in the form of lava fountaining, which had previously weakened in the days following the initial eruption. Observations made via USGS webcams confirm that the current eruptions are confined to the volcano’s crater, minimizing immediate risks to surrounding areas. However, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has issued warnings regarding dangerous volcanic gases released during these eruptions. A mix of sulfur and carbon dioxide, commonly referred to as vog, can be carried by wind currents, affecting air quality in communities even those not in close proximity to Kilauea. This highlights the importance of staying informed and prepared, especially for residents living downwind of the volcano. This latest eruption marks the sixth within the Kilauea caldera since 2020, with each event varying in duration, ranging from a week to over a year. As Hawaii grapples with these natural phenomena, the resilience of its residents and the ongoing research by scientists continue to play critical roles in understanding and responding to the challenges posed by living in such a geologically active region.